Building an inclusive future: How maturity assessments enable digital accessibility
Today, companies and organizations of all types, particularly in North America, are increasingly prioritizing a commitment to digital accessibility and inclusion, but many are struggling to live up to that commitment. This increased attention is driven by several factors: legal requirements, enhanced business performance, talent acquisition and retention, improved reputation, and inclusivity’s ability to foster innovation and productivity.
Organizations understand that by embracing these drivers, they are not only complying with regulations, but can also unlock significant business value. This trend reflects a broader understanding that accessibility and inclusion are essential for creating a diverse and dynamic workforce, ultimately leading to a more innovative and successful business environment.
How companies are addressing digital accessibility and inclusion
If we look at the evolving digital workplace, several key trends shaping the future of work are closely aligned with accessibility and disability inclusion. Remote and hybrid work models have become the norm, necessitating accessible digital tools and platforms to ensure all employees — including those with disabilities — can collaborate effectively.
Enterprises are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to create more inclusive environments, such as AI-driven assistive technologies that can support employees with visual or hearing impairments. They are also prioritizing personalized employee experiences, with flexible work arrangements and customized support to meet diverse needs.
In this context, enhanced cybersecurity and data protection measures are crucial, because secure and accessible systems protect sensitive information while ensuring usability for all. Continuous learning and development initiatives are also trending, with a focus on inclusive training programs that accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
These trends underscore the importance of integrating digital accessibility and disability inclusion into the core of any digital workplace strategy, helping to foster a more equitable and productive environment for everyone.
Many companies prioritize digital accessibility and inclusion but struggle to live up to that commitment. A maturity model assessment helps identify strengths and areas for improvement, and offers a roadmap for progress.
The challenges to digital accessibility and inclusion
Despite the clear links between the future of work and accessibility, not to mention a strong commitment to disability inclusion, companies often face barriers that prevent them from achieving their commitment — or even complying with laws and requirements.
A lack of awareness and training can lead to ineffective practices, while insufficient resources limit the implementation of necessary measures. The complexity of implementation across diverse environments adds to the challenge, and inconsistent policies can fragment efforts.
Fear of disclosure among employees with disabilities prevents a full understanding of their needs. It’s also costly to update legacy systems that were not designed for accessibility and without strong leadership support, many initiatives are not given the priority they deserve.
Cultural resistance can further obstruct the adoption of inclusive practices. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive strategies, ongoing education, and a supportive culture.
We know that these barriers and challenges confront companies and organizations of all types and across all sectors as they try to accelerate their own accessibility and inclusion journeys. The CIO of a major US university confided to us that they have pockets of “heroic effort” towards digital accessibility, but have struggled to scale those isolated good practices across the entire organization.
How to overcome obstacles to accessibility
Based on our experience working with companies to foster accessibility and inclusion, we believe that a maturity model assessment is the right approach to initiate or renew your dedication to this important effort.
This powerful tool is essential for committed companies looking to advance on their disability inclusion and accessibility journey. Maturity model assessments provide a comprehensive evaluation of current practices, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and offer a strategic roadmap for progress. By prioritizing resource allocation and fostering accountability through benchmarking, companies can systematically enhance their accessibility initiatives. Additionally, it promotes cultural integration, ensuring long-term, sustainable change.
Atos has employed this approach for a US-based global retailer to implement better sourcing and hiring strategies and to support the career velocity of employees with disabilities. We also worked with Colt Technology Services to mitigate legal risk, reduce costs, and improve employee retention through digital accessibility and inclusion efforts.
We know these aren't the only enterprises dealing with these challenges, so if your company is struggling to achieve your accessibility and inclusion goals, a maturity model assessment might be what you need to get things back on track.
Atos works to ensure your digital accessibility and inclusion initiatives are effective, sustainable, and compliant with legal standards. Take the first step towards a more inclusive future. Visit us online to begin accelerating your accessibility journey today.
Posted on: December 3, 2024
Ricardo García Bahamonde
Head of Accessibility & Digital Inclusion – Atos SpainMember, Atos Research Community
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James Thurston
Head of Accessibility, North America, AtosMember, Atos Research Community
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